What is the hold up with Manchester United and David De Gea’s contract extension?

David De Gea is in the last year of his contract. The goalkeeper does have a club option for next season, but the Red Devils have dragged their feet on a new deal for De Gea. But it isn’t just a new deal that Manchester United have failed to offer the player. Manchester United have still not triggered De Gea’s extension for next term. Could De Gea walk away for free next summer?

Manchester United have spoken with De Gea’s representatives, yet nothing has been sorted out. Supporters are starting to get worried the goalkeeper will not sign a new long-term deal. De Gea has been Manchester United’s best player this season once again.

Real Madrid are now uninterested in signing De Gea, which takes away one of the goalkeeper’s possible destinations. The Spanish giants had been interested in De Gea, but with Thibaut Courtois signed last summer, there is no reason for Los Blancos to add the goalkeeper.

Barcelona could be interested in signing De Gea to a long-term deal, but that doesn’t answer the question of why Manchester United haven’t triggered De Gea’s extension.

With Manchester United’s up and down form, and Jose Mourinho’s future uncertain, De Gea could be on his way out.

One of the theories behind Manchester United not triggering De Gea’s contract extension is they are afraid to show supporters the player is uninterested in staying long-term. It seems it is a way for the club to save face. According to the Metro, Manchester United will wait until around Christmas time before they trigger De Gea’s clause.

If Manchester United do not trigger De Gea’s clause before January, the Spaniard will be able to agree to a pre-contract with another club from the continent.

Are Manchester United making a mistake with the David De Gea contract situation?